Hi Mark,

I understand your point about clear structured (and limited number) classes and agree with it. But if the class rules are to strict, i.e. F18, then we would only see very limited development. I think that the F18 class is very convenient for the builders, they do not need to put much money in develop, but much in marketing. The customer does not profit from that. The same happened with the F104, and that is way the big cat companies tend to jump on this train (IMO).
On the other hand I think that we all profit from the Spitfires, Taipans and other non-formula boats, because they showed that also small, light (and sometimes cheap) boats can be fast and that 100kg for 2 person catamaran are possible. I do not know, if the F16 rules would have a minimum weight of about 105kg, but 140kg without some of these 11 classes you mentioned.
If you set class rules which are good for the owner, which have challanging weight limits, i.e. F16, you will probably not see companies like Hobie or Nacra and you have the risk, that the class remains unpopulated.
Clearly there must be a balance these two worlds. But I would always be happy if there is at least one companie (hopefully more), which builds a boat outside of rules, because they belive that it will be better.

Cheers,

Klaus